Grand Canyon Times

• Mouth breathing can lead to dental issues, including gingivitis and cavity development.
• As many as 60% of adults breathe through their mouth.
• Procedures such as a balloon sinuplasty or endoscopy can help a patient to breathe better through their nose.

Dr. Brian Lee, a board-certified otolaryngologist with the Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy Center said helping patients to easily breathe through their nose can improve their overall quality of life.

"A lot of patients who come in have suffered with these issues for so long that they either never knew or forgot what it was like just to be able to breathe through their nose," Lee told Grand Canyon Times. "Once we get them all taken care of and get everything opened up, kind of that 'aha' moment that they get when they take a breath through their nose, and they're like, 'Oh my gosh, I've never been able to breathe like that.' It never gets old to see that look on their face when they actually take a full breath in through their nose."

Even though people should be breathing through their nose, as many as 60% of adults frequently use their mouths to breathe. When a person is unable to easily breathe through their nose, it can dry out their mouth, which cultivates an environment where gingivitis and cavities can thrive, according to Healthline.

According to WebMD, there are several treatment options available for people who suffer from long-term sinus issues, including endoscopy and balloon sinuplasty, both of which are offered by the Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy Center.

Endoscopy is a common procedure, during which doctors insert an endoscope into the nose. A small camera sends images back to a screen, allowing the doctor to see where the sinuses are blocked and guide the other instruments to gently remove the blockages. Another newer treatment is balloon sinuplasty, where a thin tube is placed into the nose with a small balloon attached to one end. The doctor then guides the balloon to the blocked area and inflates it. The balloon helps clear the passageway, alleviating congestion.

To learn more about the symptoms of sinusitis and allergies, take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz.